Jacks bested by Razorbacks

The South Dakota State men's tennis team opened its spring schedule in Omaha versus Arkansas on Sunday, but was bested 7-0.

The Jackrabbits pushed the Razorbacks in doubles, but was unable to come away with the team point. Mateus Moreira and Lucas Pereira were the lone bright spot on the scoreboard for SDSU, knocking off Arkansas' No. 3 doubles team 8-6.

SDSU was unable to secure the team point, however, as Arkansas won the other two doubles matches.

In singles, Moreira won the first set 6-4 at No. 6, but was unable to close out the match and lost in three sets, 6-2, 10-4 in the second set and third-set super tiebreaker.

H. Pereira battled hard at No. 2, but dropped a 6-2, 6-3 decision. Boglić also fought, but lost both sets 6-3.

"Overall, it was a great night of tennis," head coach Michael Engdahl said. "Obviously Mateus and Lucas scoring the doubles win against a top-level opponent gives us some momentum to build on, especially early in the season. We had some first-match jitters, as well, and it is always nice to get those out of the way. We have a tough schedule ahead and we have plenty to build off of from today. I am happy with the effort and mindset of the team and we are ready for a great season."

Next the Jacks travel to St. Louis, Mo., for a meet at St. Louis. Start time is set for 4:30 p.m. on Saturday, Jan. 26.